SALT LAKE CITY - A rare solar eclipse will be visible over the sky this weekend, and southern and central Utah will provide a prime viewing location.
A 'ring of fire' will be visible over the western horizon just before sundown on Sunday. It will partially visible along the Wasatch Front, but southern Utah will give the best view.
"If you're on that magic line that runs through central and southern Utah, you will have an angular eclipse," said Patrick Wiggins, a NASA Solar System Ambassador. "Like a golden wedding ring just about to touch the mountains."
Cedar City and the small town of Kannaraville are preparing for the international press and thousands of astronomy buffs to get a chance to see the rare event.
But doctors say you shouldn't look directly at the eclipse because it could damage your eyes. Special glasses are needed to keep safe.
"Looking straight ahead at the eclipse with even regular sunglasses is dangerous. It's tempting to do so with the sun luminosity diminished by the moon," said Dr. Bala Ambati, Professor of Ophthalmology.
The eclipse should be visible between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Utah time.
For more information:
Here are some instruction on how to create a device for viewing the eclipse safely.
Ride a ski lift to see the eclipse with glasses provided: www.brianhead.com/summer
Parties and other event info:www.scenicsouthernutah.com/htdocs/annular_solar_eclipse.shtml
